Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 12:30 pm
3-Day Wristband Eligible
St. Louis–born vocalist, composer, and educator Alicia Olatuja is celebrated for her rich fusion of jazz, gospel, classical, R&B, and Afropop. Classically trained as a mezzo-soprano, Olatuja earned degrees from the University of Missouri and Manhattan School of Music, debuting at Carnegie Hall and Opera Memphis. She gained national attention singing at President Obama’s 2013 Inauguration and later collaborated with artists like Christian McBride, Gregory Porter, Billy Childs, and Dianne Reeves. A dedicated educator and certified life coach, Olatuja founded the Vocal Breakthrough Academy, and her live performances showcase her dynamic artistry and global musical vision. This is her SMF debut.
Christian Sands is a celebrated jazz pianist known for his mastery of post-bop and swing traditions. A protégé of the late Billy Taylor, he began playing piano at age three and composing by five. After studying at the Manhattan School of Music, Sands gained early acclaim through Grammy Award performances and appearances at the Kennedy Center. He was also a regular participant in the Jazz in July music camp at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he first met Taylor. He released his debut album Footprints, at 12 and has played with luminaries such as Lou Donaldson, Kirk Whalum, Phil Woods, James Moody, and Wycliffe Gordon, among many others. This is Sands’ third appearance at SMF.
